Rosie has welcomed a tough new licensing scheme designed to rid England of rogue wheel clampers.
The Government has today set out its Crime and Security Bill which will make it mandatory for all wheel clamping businesses to be licensed under the terms of a strict code of conduct. The code will include a cap on fines, time limits on towing cars unreasonably quickly after being clamped and set out clear instructions for putting up signs warning drivers that clamping takes place.
Rosie has campaigned for tighter regulation for private wheel clamping companies for many years. In July she met with the President of the AA and the Home Office Minister with responsibility in this area, Alan Campbell MP, to lobby for stricter regulation following complaints from residents in Doncaster.
Rosie says:
“Many of my constituents have had horrendous experiences at the hands of these companies so I am delighted that the Government is changing the law.”
"New legislation is on its way but clampers should start sorting their act out now rather than waiting to be forced by this law change.”
Ministers are also looking to introduce an independent appeals process for motorists who feel unfairly penalised by firms and their employees. Any company which breaches the terms of their licence could lose their right to practice and face up to five years in prison or a substantial fine.
Home Office Minister Alan Campbell said:
“Rosie has played a major part in lobbying to change the law on wheel clamping and I am grateful for her input which will help to get rid of the worst abuses and protect motorists. There is no room within the wheel clamping industry for those who indulge in unacceptable behaviour.”
“Firms will have to ensure signage is clear, fines are proportionate and towing practices are regulated. We are also working to introduce an independent appeals process for motorists who feel they have been unfairly treated.” The industry wide code of practice, which wheel clamping firms will have to adhere to in order to hold a licence, will include standards for:
- signage, including size and visibility;
- maximum penalties charged and payment methods;
- minimum time between immobilisation and removal;
- providing evidence that a parking infringement has taken place;
- security and location of pound where vehicles are impounded; and
- an independent complaints and appeals policy.